A football season in photos

I've learned a lot about photographing Michigan football for AnnArbor.com over the last three years. Number one, football is very important to a lot of people in and around Ann Arbor! Fans love their team and they'll let you know it!

Number two, there's a method to the madness. Shooting from the sidelines is a whole lot of things; it's a emotional, it's hectic, it's a workout, it's a front row seat in a house of 115,000 seats.

I've learned to sharpen my elbows (on occasion) and make sure I get the shot I want. I've learned to be patient while shoulder to shoulder fighting for the same photo as everyone else. I've learned that football is a challenge to shoot and that I am lucky to get the opportunity to do so!

The elements certainly didn't spare us. There was the early season heat, monstrous wind (I chased my hat at least twice this season) and the rain. Enough rain to evacuate the Big House twice, during the same game! Experience teaches you to always be prepared and I never went to a game without spare garbage bags, gaff tape and my complete rain suit, regardless of what the weather man predicted.

I think what I've enjoyed most about the past three seasons is the comradery among the photographers on the field. While we may not always be thrilled about the space on the sidelines, the food in the photo room or the weather conditions, it's a great group of professionals to be around and I've learned a lot.

Here I've posted some of my favorite photos from the regular season's ups and downs.